Alabama Administrative Code
Title 660 - ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Chapter 660-5-49 - BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
Section 660-5-49-.05 - Provider Responsibilities

(1) General Guidelines - Child care institutions, group homes, shelters, other facilities, and licensed child placing agencies responsible for approving foster homes that serve children in the custody and/or planning responsibility of the Department are to develop written behavior management policy which includes procedures for emergencies and crisis situations. These facilities may adopt DHR policy or develop their own as long as it is consistent with Department policy and provides children the same rights as children in DHR approved foster homes. Facilities which elect to develop their own behavior management policy must have the policy reviewed and approved by the State Department of Human Resources, Office of Agency Licensing. A provider's behavior management policy must be explained to all DHR-placed children and their parents so the family has a clear understanding of the policy. A copy of the facility's behavior management policy will be given to the parent(s) and/or legal custodian upon their request. These facilities may choose to apply Department policy to only those children placed by DHR. Providers who use isolation, seclusion, and/or restraint are to receive specialized or certified training in safely implementing these interventions as well as training in alternative, less restrictive interventions for managing behavior. Providers responsible for administering and monitoring medications must also receive training and instruction in the dispensing, storage, and disposal of medication, and how to administer medication and monitor the effects and potential side effects. Evidence of the proper storage, dispensing and disposal practices must be documented. Facilities shall also maintain documentation of all training received or provided. Training must meet generally accepted professional standards and be provided by a qualified source. In addition, facilities will survey their staff on an annual basis regarding training needs, and document in their resource or personnel files all plans or programs utilized to meet those needs. The Department will assist providers with locating training as needed.

Author: Jerome Webb